As the Union Armies marched across the South, one of their favorite practices was the destroy the Confederacy's rail lines. The American Civil War was the first significant conflict in which railroads had played a major role. Steam-powered transportation via rail was relatively new in the world in the 1860’s, the first public steam railway in the world, had been opened in England only 35 years before. Railroads had however proved invaluable to the war effort of both sides, able to move troops and supplies at previously unheard-of speeds, using imperishable, easily obtainable and readily stockpiled fuels (mostly wood in the south) its main weakness was its fixed tracks. The Union was, of course, quick to recognize this and it became standard practice to destroy southern railways. Putting the rails out of service was easy enough, pry the tacks from their wooden ties and trains could no longer run on them. The problem was how to put them out of service long term? Wooden ties could be burned, but the iron rails were a bit more durable. Remember, this was well before the advent of light but powerful explosives, or even cutting torches. Serviceable wooden ties could be hewn from the nearest woodlot and the rails re lain, especially in an area where slave labor was employed. The rails had to be made useless somehow. The answer was to melt them. The ties were piled up and made into a bonfire the rails lay across them, and when they became red hot they could be bent, the most effective method was to use a handy tree to act a center point to ensure a good angle was applied. Please note: this method would not work with modern steel rails as their melting point is too high. At the time the rails were made of rather poor-quality iron which can become malleable at temperatures as low as 700 degrees. I do not know whose idea this was the first time it was done, but rails bent by such a method became known as "Sherman Neckties" as his men practiced this widely during the Atlanta Campaign. Atlanta, however, was not the first pace it was practiced, it was also done in Mississippi in 1963 and early 1864. In one of the displays in the new Mississippi History Museum in Jackson, there is a severely bent rail, an example of Sherman's handiwork in Mississippi, proof that he was tying his neckties here long before he traveled to Georgia and beyond.

Want to know more about Sherman in Mississippi? Come to the Vicksburg Civil War Symposium July 3-4 2018. ​

​That Other BurgBy Morgan GatesThe American Civil War was the seminal conflict of American History, only the American Revolution that created our country was more important. No American War before or after can compare. Even World War II, massive and bloody as it was could not compare. For it was not fought on our soil and, heaven forbid, it had not worked out the way it did, The United States itself was not in any real sense in danger of conquest. The American Civil War was, in fact, significant on a worldwide scale. Remember since "the shot heard round the world" America had exerted a genuine Ideological influence on the rest of the world. What would have been the effect on the rest of the world if the "The Great Social Experiment" that was the USA had failed only "Four Score and Seven Years" after its inception?Please remember dear fellow student of history, that a Union victory was not a foregone conclusion especially in the first two years of the War. A string of Confederate victories in 1862 had soured the northern population's opinion of the War. The Republicans had lost control of Congress in the mid-term elections, and the Democrats were agitating to end the War with a peace treaty and bring the boys home and stop the carnage. But in the summer of 1863, a significant Union victory turned the tides of war and public opinion. What was that victory GETTYSBURG you shout! Not so fast I answer… let's consider the facts.Gettysburg is without a doubt a great battle, the nearly mythical invincibility of Lee lain open to the light of day, he was indeed just a man after all. The incredible losses of the day were unequaled in Western Hemispheric History to this day. But What if Lee had won? Lee would have still had to withdraw and head south again, sooner or later.No, I would have to argue that the most important Union victory in the bloody Year of 1863, was at THE OTHER BURG! Vicksburg! Union operations against Vicksburg had been in progress since shortly after the fall of New Orleans. U.S. Grant’s operations to capture Vicksburg had been in progress since the winter of 1862. Grant was a stubborn as a mule and tenacious as a bulldog. Handed defeat after defeat by Confederate forces and mother nature. He conducts a series of operations so audacious that even his best friend William T. Sherman is flabbergasted by them! A nighttime run by the U.S. Navy (Grant's idea) past the formidable guns of Vicksburg. An amphibious landing unequaled until D-Day. A 19th-century Blitzkrieg across central Mississippi without a substantial supply line. Two nearly bold if unsuccessful assaults across impossible terrain and a 47-day siege in the heat of a Mississippi summer. This is the turning point Victory of the summer of 1863.Had Vicksburg held and Lee lost, I think we would be living in a very different world today. Had Vicksburg fallen and Lee won, I doubt if the South could have still won. For the loss of Vicksburg was not just a loss of one town, it was the loss of the Mississippi River, and with it the Trans-Mississippi! So the next time you hear someone tell you that Gettysburg was the turning point of the War, just smile and politely nod your head for you know the truth. It was not Gettysburg but that other burg, VICKSBURG!

Want to learn more about Vicksburg and the War? Make plans now to attend the first annual Vicksburg Civil War Symposium July 3-4.

This is the Temporary trail head on Washington Street, when the Farmers Market stalls across the street are completed it will be moved over there. Wow this trail is pretty extensive, maybe we better just pick one today and come back later to finish the rest.

They have a brochure with route maps too, that will help a lot! Lets do the Downtown route 1.8 miles.

Yes, Vicksburg has some hills, but it's nothing we can't handle, plus it's great exercise.

Look, that's a Mississippi Blues Trail marker! Vicksburg has a lot more to it than the Civil War. Who knew?

"The Mississippi Barbecue Company will opening soon in this old building! Great Food served in unique historic buildings, with great views! What's not to like!

Look at this cool old house being restored on Grove Street.

Here is the next marker, it's about the Jewish community in Vicksburg.

These are some of the people who contributed to these markers. Oh, I've herd of this guy, I here he really knows his stuff!

This is the Bazsinsky House to day, it's a beautiful place!

This is where the HAUNTED VICKSBURG GHOST TOUR starts! On the corner of Monroe and Grove, on Friday and Saturday nights! I hear it is really good, we should take it one night!

The Old Courthouse Museum, if walls could talk! We have to go there before we leave!

Look at these old pictures of Vicksburg, what a different perspective.

The Jail, Courthouse, and Funeral home all right here together.

The Jail today, they used to hang convicts in that tower.

You can rent this historic house as an Air B&B complete with butler and cook if you can afford it!

Vicksburg columns, newspapers printed on wallpaper, more fun facts

Let's stop and eat lunch here!

The Luckett Compound, we would have missed this if it weren't on the trail.

The Confederate commander of Vicksburg's Headquarters was here

The Old Sister's of Mercy Convent and School. It's called the Southern Cultural Heritage Center.

Many beautiful places along Cherry Street

Lots of beautiful churches in this city!

Memorial Gardens

Wow, there is so much to see here, and that was only one trail! We need to come back soon!

If you would like a GUIDED TOUR of this remarkable city, along this trail or any other or if you are not up to walking, and would like a driving tour, shoot me and email at principatours@yahoo.com ​

On this day no smoke obscured the view, the roar of cannon and musket were replaced by the whisper of the wind. The ominous muzzle of Union cannon stared at me across the ravine, but no death and destruction had issued from them within the living memory of man. Black Vultures circled high in the sky by while their distant ancestors may have feasted on human flesh. These carrion birds would likely sup on nothing more gruesome than road-killed armadillo.

Do spirits still haunt this battlefield? Some say they do. Certainly there still a few forgotten bones buried somewhere in the ravine below. But today only memories, visual images pulled from the pages of history books, people the landscape below. ​These images remind me that this place where I sit in peace today was once a place of bloody carnage where lives were sacrificed so that the nation we know today could exist.​My dog grows restless. He wants to move on, to smell the deer cropping and trace the path of other woods' creatures that have passed this way. I get up and we start back the way we came.

The building is historic—and I will blog about that when I get more of that history from the owner—but the place is modern and like nothing else in Vicksburg! Our historic area has stepped up and into exactly what young people are looking for in a community. One can live in The Lofts, lunch at 10 South or Roca, and then when evening comes, walk on down and unwind at the Cottonwood Public House!

Craft Beers, which are all the rage!Craft Cocktails, YUM!Craft Pizzas cooked in a firebrick oven!The menu is “foodie heaven”.

The atmosphere is “old meets new”, “inside meets outside”, and “traditional meets modern”! Exposed brick walls, wide open space, a very L.O.N.G. bar, seating that will open onto the sidewalk when the weather is warmer, tall tables, short tables, a sofa, a dart board, and, of course, let us not forget that THEY BREW BEER! (Well, they will be soon! Zack Erickson, the brewer, promised that we will talk so I can blog all about that as soon as the beer is brewing!)

Shirley Waring of Vicksburg Blues Society and friend, Sharon Lutz

If you are looking for an interesting way to spend an evening or a new place to call “your place”, check out The Cottonwood Public House, 1309 Washington Street! The epitome of reclaimed-downtown chic, it is certainly a modern way to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg!​

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​Spring will be here before we know it, therefore it is not too early to start planning daytrips, weekends, long weekends, or even week-long Spring vacations. Vicksburg is certainly well into planning an exciting season for those of you who want to come Rediscover Historic Vicksburg!

Vicksburg Spring Pilgrimage 2018
The dates for Vicksburg Spring Pilgrimage 2018 are March 22-April 8, on Thursday-Sunday of each week.

Pilgrimage is more than just afternoon tours of historic homes, churches, etc. It is also special events and unique educational and entertainment opportunities designed to introduce you to all that Historic Vicksburg has to offer. Of course, Civil War history is thoroughly covered, but the Antebellum Era is about more than war. Plus, Vicksburg’s history goes back long before the war and much has happened since. Pilgrimage has something for everyone!

One unique feature of Vicksburg Pilgrimages is that you are not merely buying a venue tour ticket, handed a map, and sent on your way! All afternoon venue tours are conducted by Historic & Haunted Vicksburg Tours owner/operator, Morgan Gates. While he drives you from one stop to the next in his comfortable tour van, Morgan entertains and educates you with a Vicksburg City Tour. Your Vicksburg Spring Pilgrimage 2018 ticket will also get you discounts at many businesses and for many events being held in Historic Vicksburg. Therefore, your Pilgrimage ticket purchase is actually a very valuable tool and a great deal!

What businesses and events?
Vicksburg has many interesting shops, galleries, antique stores, boutiques, a coffee shop, a bakery, a bookstore, museums, a new self-guided walking tour, the Riverfront Murals, Catfish Row Children’s Art Park, and unique dining options, several with live musical entertainment in the evenings. Much of this is within walking distance of one another. While not yet complete, the list of businesses offering discounts on purchases is growing daily! As far as events, how do afternoon teas, ghost hunts and/or tours, book signings, trivia nights, wine, beer, and cocktail tastings, the Genius World Book of Records longest running play: Gold in the Hills, and an Antebellum Ball sound? Those are a few of the things in the works!

Rest & Relax in the Midst of History
Any trip to Vicksburg, but especially during Pilgrimage, is enhanced by staying at one of our may Bed & Breakfast locations. The history of the homes, the period furnishings, the gardens or courtyards, and of course the Southern Hospitality—defiantly the best way to have a superior and relaxing lodging experience!

More to Come!
Over the next few weeks, as details are finalized, I will be keeping you informed and providing you with contact information, ticket information, etc. I will also re-share the blogs I have already done on historic tour homes, tours, etc., as well as bringing you new blogs about those I have not yet covered! Of course, the goal is to whet your appetite, peak your curiosity, and lure you to our 2018 Vicksburg Spring Pilgrimage! If you cannot make it at that time however, it will all serve as a great guide for when you can join us, Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg!

Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg​in the WinterWhile Vicksburg, Mississippi is certainly in “The South”, our winter weather is unpredictable. We may have temperatures in the 70’s one day and in the 20’s the next! We even get some snow! I am honored to share pics from Vicksburg National Military Park that my friend, Licensed Battlefield Guide, B.B. Ingle, recently sent to me! (Thank you B.B.!)​ ~Meshea Crysup, Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg

The morning of December 8th, 2017, I awoke to find several text messages from my friend, BB Ingle. An occasional text about Vicksburg Civil War Roundtable is not unusual, but over a half-a-dozen at around 7 am—well that was! If you are familiar with “The South” at all, however, you will understand what B.B. was so excited about!

What is there to do in Vicksburg in the winter?​Well, to be honest, if it snows, not a lot, lol! We truly pretty much shut down the whole state of Mississippi!Thankfully, that does not happen very often! So, check out the weather forecast, just in case, then go ahead and plan a trip to Vicksburg!

Obviously, Vicksburg National Military is open year around, baring the federal government shutting down. Vicksburg also has many tour homes which are open or available upon appointment. There are also museums, historic churches, art galleries, a book store, guided tours, walking tours, unique dining experiences, riverfront murals, an art park, historic cemeteries, unique stores and shops, live music, trivia, wine, beer, and cocktail tastings, and more! My list is far from exhaustive. Below are links to websites with complete lists and details. ​

As you can see, Historic Vicksburg has much to offer, even in the winter! In fact, if heat, humidity, and mosquitos are not for you, winter might be the best time for you to plan on Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg!

Seriously folks, winter really is a GREAT TIME ​for​Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg!

​History Has a HomeBy Morgan GatesI was finally able to get over to the new Mississippi History Museum this weekend, so I thought I would venture a few miles to the east of Vicksburg and write a blog or two about this long-awaited building. The new Mississippi History Museum in Jackson, opened in December, to coincide with Mississippi’s Bicentennial. It has been a long time coming but it is was worth the wait. Mississippi is arguably one of the most historic states in the Union at the state has no shortage of excellent museums, including among others, the Old Court House Museum and the Lower Mississippi Valley Museum in Vicksburg. The Elvis's Birthplace Museum in Tupelo, Beauvoir in Biloxi, B.B. King in Indianola, The Agricultural Museum in Jackson and many more both large and small. Each interprets a different slice of Mississippi's diverse and rich history. The Central Museum, the one that tells Mississippi's history as a whole, however, has been missing piece of the puzzle for more than a decade.Our story of homeless artifacts begins in the late summer of 2005 when Hurricane Katrina barreled ashore on the “Landmass between New Orleans and Mobile” as one national media weatherperson phrased it, that we otherwise know as the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The storm made landfall about 150 miles south by southeast of Jackson. Your average garden variety hurricane is usually little more than a gusty rainstorm by the time they are that far inland, but our girl Katrina! She reached Jackson while still at hurricane at strength. And she ripped much of the copper sheathing from the roof of the Museum’s previous home, the Old Capitol Building. Causing the artifacts removal to safe storage until repairs could be made. With much of the southern half of the state in ruins, it took a while for repairs to be made.The old Mississippi State Capitol building, which served from 1839 – 1903 is a historical artifact in and of itself, so when restoration funds became available in 2006, it was decided that this Grand Old Dame would better serve to tell her own story! When she reopened in 2009, she did just that. One Vicksburg connection in the Old Capitol Museum; on the wall in the old Governor's office are the names of every man who served in that role during the building's tenure, the first name is Alexander Gallatin McNutt of Vicksburg! The Old Capitol is now a great new addition to Mississippi's interpretive history, but still, no building was available to tell the whole story. So, a brand-new construction began to rise right behind the Old Capitol to house and expand upon the artifacts of the Mississippi History collection. Coupled with the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum housed in the same building but with its own wing, two for the price of one so to speak, the Museum is now open, and Mississippi's history once more has a home! Go check it out some time. http://www.mmh.mdah.ms.gov/

A Prayer for the PresidentBy Morgan GatesA scene from an Episcopal prayer service, in Vicksburg Mississippi the Rector leads the congregation in prayer:

O LORD, our heavenly Father, the high and mighty Ruler of the universe, who dost from thy throne behold all the dwellers upon earth; Most heartily we beseech thee, with thy favor to behold and bless thy servant THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, and all others in authority; and so replenish them with the grace of thy Holy Spirit, that they may always incline to thy will, and walk in thy way. Endue them plenteously with heavenly gifts; grant them in health and prosperity long to live; and finally, after this life, to attain everlasting joy and felicity; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A murmur runs through the congregation, there is a tension in the room, most are too polite to speak it, but the thoughts running through their minds are almost audible. Oh My God, did he really just pray for God to bless that awful man? He is not my President! The only reason he is in charge of us is due to outside meddling!There are also members of the local government and law enforcement in the congregation that day as well. They can see the discontent in the crowd; they wonder if a violent protest is about to break out right here in this church service. Churches have often been hotbeds of political dissent. One of them wonders if he should summon back up immediately. Another thinks “what is wrong with these people, can’t they at least respect the office if not the man?” Then several of the leading ladies of the congregation storm out the back door in protest! The tension breaks the officials breath a sigh of relief.

The protest described above was not a protest against Donald Trump: it was against Abraham Lincoln, and it occurred in a prayer service in Christ Episcopal Church on Christmas Eve in 1863! On December 24th, 1863 Vicksburg had been an occupied city for six months! Martial law was in effect; Blue coated troops patrolled the streets! The previous rector of the church the Reverend W.W. Lord and ardent Confederate had departed the City after the surrender. Another man now filled the pulpit. Quite a few of the Union occupiers were of the Episcopal denomination and attended services at the church regularly, and it was at their insistence that he pulled out the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer, and led the congregation that particular prayer on that particular day. The Prayer for the President of the United States was not something new, but it had been modified to read the Prayer for the President of the Confederate States by most southerners since succession! The protesting ladies did not get off “scot free” however. They were identified by the Union officials and banned from the city for the duration of the war! It was said that the Union officials discovered that: The Men of Vicksburg had surrendered, but the women had not!

The tradition long predates Dickens it seems, but the Puritans did not much like it so it never really "crossed the pond" so to speak. Dickens' work gave Christmastide ghost story a brief burst of life in the new world in the 19th century, but eventually, it was the Halloween tradition brought west by Scottish immigrants that became the scary holiday!

​One, day in a fit of anger my father – just a child at the time – set out to run away from home, and burst out the front door at a run! The Vicksburg Street on which he lived has a railroad track running right alongside it. As luck would have it, at that particular moment a stooped over old man with a sack over his shoulder was walking by his house! Well, you can imagine how quickly he reversed course and decided running away was not such a good idea!

Vicksburg’s “Main” StreetBy Morgan GatesIn many small cities, at least “back in the day” as they say, the main shopping district was almost always “Main Street” and Vicksburg does indeed have a street named “Main” but a quick drive down Vicksburg’s Main Street today shows that it is just a quiet residential street. In 1837, a tremendous fire swept up Main Street, and when Vicksburg rebuilt, it moved its “main” street to Washington Street. Washington was named of course for the first president and paralleled the Mississippi River, which was the highway of 19th century America, and Vicksburg’s reason for existing.

Washington Street soon became the thriving shopping area of Vicksburg's antebellum period. Emma Balfour, Vicksburg's most famous siege diarists, speaks of doing her Christmas shopping on Washington Street in letters to her Sister in Law in Alabama. Vicksburg's antebellum period, of course, ended with Grant’s triumphal entry into the city on July 4th, 1863, at the conclusion of a 47-day siege. Washington Street’s location, within sight of the river, caused it to suffer grievous damage. Not many buildings from the prewar period remain along Washington today, but those that do still bear their scars if you know where to look!

Vicksburg rebuilt its shopping district once more. Postwar, Vicksburg became the realm of the "Wholesale Merchant" supplying the post-war tenant farming system. King Cotton was still on his throne post-war and the domestic and international demand remained high. Plantation owners, however, found themselves with a bit of a problem: No labor force! Few Freedmen, given the choice, which they now were, willingly returned to the fields. Attempts to coerce them eventually failed and attempts to recruit immigrants also came up short. Soon the South settled into a system of tenant farming, renting out the plantation lands in manageable parcels to small farmers (black and white), who, in this area, bought necessary supplies on credit either from Vicksburg’s wholesale merchants directly or from plantation stores supplied by Vicksburg’s merchants. These sharecroppers, as they were known, paid not only their rent but settled all mercantile accounts at harvest time with wagon loads of cotton. Many a fine old home in Vicksburg today is linked to this post-war Washington Street recovery. By the early 20th century Washington Street was the finest shopping district between Memphis and New Orleans.

The reign of King Cotton ended with a long, slow whimper in the first third of the 20th century. Vicksburg reinvented itself once more. The Mississippi River Commission located its headquarters here and Vicksburg became a focus for understanding and taming the Mississippi River. By mid century, Washington Street was still a thriving shopping area. Then, on December 5th, 1953, an F5 tornado (this was before such measurements were invented, but it was calculated years later based on damage reports) took aim at Washington Street. By the time this terrible storm dissipated, 38 people were dead and much of Washington Street’s shopping district lay in ruins. Vicksburg rebuilt, and by the 1960’s, Washington Street thrived once more.

The Christmas BallHosted by The Old Court House Museum Dec 9th 7:30-9:30 PMIt's that time of year again folks! The Old Court House Museum will be hosting The Christmas Ball on December 9th, and all are welcome. Come enjoy a night of good food, drinks, and period style dancing! Tickets are $30 each or $60 a couple. We also rent costumes for the evening. For more information contact us at 601-636-0741 or societyhistorica@bellsouth.net

On Christmas Eve 1862 a Christmas Ball that was being held at the home of Dr. William T. Balfour and his wife Emma was interrupted by a messenger warning of the approach of a Union task force supported by Ironclads. The Confederate General M.L. Smith famously ends the ball as he orders his officers to their stations. Each year as a fundraiser the Old Courthouse Museum reenacts that ball. This years Confederate Ball will be held on December 9th.

​‘Twas the night before Christmas, at the Balfour HouseThe guests were all dancing, maybe even the mouse!The officers conversed by the fire without care,No one was worried, about the Yankee’s up there;

The soldiers were nestled all snug in their bedsWhile visions of back home, danced in their heads;Emma in her ballgown, was the belle of the nightWith war all around us no one thought of the fight!

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter.Away to the window I flew like a flash,Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The patter of rain on the muddy ground below,Gave a feeling of gloom to objects below,When what to my straining eyes did appear,But an exhausted messenger drawing quite near,

The messenger’s hobnails came on with the click,He needed the General and needed him quick!More rapid than an eagle, so I do claimHe called for the generals, he called them by name

Oh Forney, Oh Bowen, no, he’s near Port Gibson!Oh, Martin Luther Smith – to tell you - I’m fixen--At the top of his lungs – ore the noise of it all!The Yankee’s are coming – how many – seems All!

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,When they meet with an obstacle, mount up to the sky,So up on the staircase the General he flew,Bad news was a coming, this we all knew!

Some how all knew it, tho I have no proof,Even the horses, I swear, were prancing their hoof.As I drew in my hand and was turning aroundGeneral Smith, opened his mouth, we all dreaded the sound.

His uniform was splendid, from his head to his boot,His buttons so shiny, though we didn’t give a hoot.The news he conveyed was like a weight on his back,We all feared the trouble he was about to unpack.

The Yankees are sighted, they’re just north of town!On gunboats and transports, they are coming right down.This party is over, all officers must report,Civilians evacuate, it’s your last resort!

He sprang to his horse, to his men gave a whistle.And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.But I heard him exclaim as he rode out of sight,MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!

Those Who Stand! by Morgan GatesOn this day ninety-nine years ago, the war we now call World War I ended! On that day it was not yet known as WWI though it was called: The Great War, or the War to end all Wars! It ended with an armistice that was signed on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month! The day we now use to remember all Veterans! Of course, we know today that WWI was not the last war nor even the greatest!

War is, unfortunately, part of the human experience. We are by nature an aggressive and predatory species it is the reason we have large brains, predators must be smarter than prey! The brain is a biologically expensive organ! There must be a high return on investment to be able to afford it. War is, therefore, perhaps a necessary part of man’s existence here on Earth! But war does not have to be our constant state of life, for we are the most intelligent of God’s creation, smart enough to figure out how to not fight! We trade, we negotiate, and we, set up laws and other deterrents to restrain our baser emotions. As time has passed we have grown and progressed and done a fairly good job of keeping the peace, at least in this country. The USA has become a beacon of peace and prosperity in our modern world. If history has taught us anything, however, it is that the wolf always lurks near the door waiting for us to let our guard down so that he can pounce.

We here in the United States have been marvelously blessed in that we have seen very little of the specter of war on our doorsteps. Since the end of the Civil War, most of our fighting has been on faraway shores thanks to "Those Who Stand"--the men and women of our armed services--that have taken our fights to the enemy’s doorsteps rather than allowing it to come to our own!

But wait a minute you ask, aren’t you a son of the South? What about the Civil War – what about your great grandfather the Rebel soldier you ask? True! I write about the South during the War of Northern Aggression, and in some people’s eye’s today anyone who remembers that time must be disloyal, but that could not be farther from the truth! The Civil War was a terrible tragedy for all involved. In effect, it was a massive domestic dispute. But when it was over some of the same men who fought each other worked together to rebuild the South, build the West, and make the U.S.A into the great nation it is today. Some later fought beside each other in our next war. Their descendants fought the Germans and the Japanese, and Chinese and North Vietnamese in our 20th-century wars. Perhaps one of America’s greatest assets is to make those who were once our enemies our friends!

Today descendants of these soldiers in Blue and Gray plus those whose descendants came to the land of the free at later dates still stand ready! Ready to fight to preserve our country, but then offer a hand to those who we have just defeated. Our men and women in uniform still stand ready to protect us, so thank a Vet when you meet them! Happy Veterans Day – but wait there is more!

Our country iswelded together with the fires of war and the blood of patriots and made stronger by the glue of forgiveness. It is also true that many of yesterday’s enemies are today’s friend, but never forget that evil still exists and it is always looking for new ways to bring us down. Our nation faces new and even more insidious enemies. Not so much a wolf at the door this time, more a virus in the blood. Those who hate America, both foreign and domestic, are spreading hate, fear, and division among us by any means necessary! The time is at hand for all of us to be prepared, for we must all be ready to be among “THOSE WHO STAND” for America!

Col. Preston Brent of the 38th MississippiRediscovering Historic Vicksburg While in Paducah, KY—Whhhaaat?As you all know, I am not from Vicksburg. This past week, I was back “up home” in Paducah, KY, to see family and attend my sister’s wedding. This could be entitled “It’s a Small World After All—Part Two” because while I was in Paducah—well, y’all guessed it—I Rediscovered Historic Vicksburg, again! Meshea Crysup RHV, RHV Books, and Civil War Bloggers & More Network Founder

As we were leaving from our recent trip to Paducah, KY, I received the usual notice in my email to rate or review the place we had stayed. We had been very pleased with our accommodations, so I was happy to do so. (I do not enjoy when I have negative things to say.) Upon completion, I zipped the gentleman a quick message to let him know I had given him “rave reviews”. He thanked me and said he hoped we came back to stay again. He then added that his family was from Mississippi and that he actually had an ancestor with a monument in Vicksburg National Military Park. He gave me a name, and, of course, my search was on!

Col. Preston BrentCol. Preston Brent was born in Pike County, Mississippi, near Holmesville, on May 25th.—that is my birthday too—in the year 1833. (One source listed Copiah County, MS as his birthplace.) His father, Preston Brent, Sr. was born Feb 27th. 1799, in Fairfield District, South Carolina. Most sources list his mother as Elizabeth Briley, born May 1st. 1804, in the Mississippi Territory. (One source listed her name as “Unknown”.) All sources agree that he married Frances E. “Fanny” Brent, a distant cousin, Sept. 14, 1854. The best I can tell, confusion in sources about his parentage comes from the fact her sir name was the same as his—Brent—and her parents are at times listed as his parents. From what I gleaned, her father, John A. Brent served as a private under his son-in-law, and her mother was Rebecca Kaigler Brent.

Col. Preston Brent, a doctor, had very good organizational skills. Before the war, he served as an officer in the Mississippi State Militia. At the beginning of the Civil War, he started the Quitman Guard and Company K, also known as The Brent Guards or The Brent Rifles, a part of the Mississippi 38th Infantry Regiment. Timeline of Col Preston Brent’s Civil War Service (According to WikiTree.com https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Brent-312 )

1861—Became Major of 1st Regiment of Mississippi1862—Became Captain of Company K 38th Mississippi Infantry Regiment following Col Adam’s Injury1862—Became Lt. Colonel of 38th Mississippi Infantry Regiment1862 – 1865—Became Colonel of 38th Mississippi Infantry Regiment1863—He was wounded in face during battle at Vicksburg, Mississippi1863—He was captured and paroled at Vicksburg, Mississippi

​We had to leave the higher-traffic area of Vicksburg, and wander to the very end of a backstreet to get McRaven Tour Home, but what else would one expect when going to “Mississippi’s Most Haunted House”?

Once parked, we entered the estate via a most interesting gate. I think we took twenty pictures before we traversed the path and ​ reached the house!

It was about 9 a.m., so I must confess the place did not come across as “spooky” or “haunted”. I imagine we would have felt differently had it been night time. Day or night, I am positive we would have felt differently had we encountered a ghost or some other strange experience while there. Unfortunately—or fortunately, depending upon how you look at it—we did not. What we did experience, however, was a step back into time during our guided tour of this wonderfully preserved time-capsule. Never one to re-invent the wheel, this excerpt from their website does an excellent job of setting expectations:Named Mississippi's "Most Haunted House," visit the McRaven Tour Home where ghostly demeanor has been broadcasted on A&E, The Travel Channel, 48 Hours, and "Look Around Mississippi." Step back in time to Vicksburg's finest, totally authentic, pre Civil War home with the most complete way-of-life tour. Built and remodeled in three different time periods, every room is lavishly furnished and reserved with museum-quality antiques including a pioneer kitchen. National Geographic Magazine has labeled the McRaven Tour Home the "Time Capsule of the South." Enjoy strolling through the three-acre gardens, once a Confederate campsite and field hospital. Discover and experience the famous and infamous people of McRaven, and why their spirits have never left. (www.McRavenTourHome.com)

The basic, daily tour we took is chalked full of history and was well worth the time and money. There is also a Haunted Tour option. Special events, such as paranormal investigations, a fall day in the Pumpkin Patch (complete with face painting, games, and a photo booth), special candle-light ghost tours, and a variety of other events are also available throughout the year. ​Martha and I learned a great deal, were in awe of the period furnishings as well as the home itself, and had a full morning, including browsing in a gift shop, by making just this one stop. Of course, between the two of us, we took a lot of photos! Be sure to check them out at the end of the blog post! We certainly concluded that McRaven Tour Home is indeed an excellent way to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg!McRaven Tour Homewww.McRavenTourHome.com601-501-1336 Located at 1445 Harrison Street, Vicksburg, MS 39180 Mon-Thurs: 10am-5pm • Fri-Sat: 10am-5pm, 7-9pm • Sun: 1-5pm, 7-9pm Extended Times and Dates for October!

​For over a year now I have been sharing with all of you--and anyone else who will listen--all the ways I have found to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg. Today, I am curious...

How Do You Recommend to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg​by Meshea Crysup, Founder RHV, RHV Books, & Civil War Bloggers...and More NetworkNot from Vicksburg or know how to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg? Well that is ok because I would love to know how YOU Rediscover Your Historic 'Burg (or area...) so KEEP READING!​​

Believe it or not, I do not wear a sign around my neck saying, "Hey, I'd love to tell you about things to do in Vicksburg!" Those who are with me believe I must, however, because rarely do I go downtown without being stopped and asked about places to eat, things to do, etc. Personally, I just think I am "approachable" and folks can just tell. Whatever the reason, I find myself, on a very regular basis, helping folks map out their evening--sometimes their whole weekend--here in Vicksburg. I know how I go about it--what I say, what I recommend, etc.-- but I am not from here. So, today, I just started wondering what those of you who are from here would have to say. So, please, if you are from the area or simply know the area well, fill out the form below! I cannot wait to learn how YOU recommend how to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg!

Not from Vicksburg or know how to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg? Well that is ok because I would love to know how YOU Rediscover Your Historic 'Burg (or area...) so KEEP READING!Thank you!​Meshea Crysup

How do YOU recommend to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg?

Please check all that apply (Not from Vicksburg? Scroll down!) *

Visitor's CentersI send everyone to the National Military Park--that's all we have for them to see.I send everyone to 10 South for the viewI tell them about The Old Court House MuseumI tell them about the city tours and haunted tours that are availableI tell them about all the different types of places to eat, including the old homes that have been convertedI tell everyone where to go to hear "The Blues"I send everyone down to see the Floodwall MuralsI tell everyone to go to Washingtown Street and walk aroundI send everyone to the Chamber of Commerce Website or other websiteOther for Rediscovering Historic VicksburgOther for telling me about where YOU live and how to Rediscover there!

If Other please specify: *

Do you *

Live hereJust know the areaLive in another area and answered accordinglyPrefer not to say

A certain lady called the other day. She was in Vicksburg’s Cedar Hill Cemetery, in the section reserved for the Confederate dead, and she was having trouble finding a certain marker. I was out at the time so she talked to my long suffering wife/bookkeeper/receptionist/CFO/love of my life. She seemed quite upset that she could not find this particular grave. She had already called the Military Park desk and they didn’t know, they had referred her to me. She seemed genuinely disturbed that my wife could not help her either!

This is not in and of itself surprising, as there are literally thousands of unknown soldiers buried around Vicksburg and more than a few lost graves! The Confederate Cemetery, “Soldiers Rest”, has about 1600 tombstones (out of 5-6,000 bodies that were actually interred there during the siege) inscribed with names and units, all standing in neat orderly rows, but not a one (that I am aware of) actually marks a particular grave. They are memorial stones, for the actual bodies were interred in pits. When you are picking up a hundred or more dead men a day, as they were during the height of the siege, the niceties of individual graves are dispensed with. The particular soldier she sought, does have a stone with his name and unit engraved on it! It was placed there long after the war as a memorial stone, but his body is not interred in any of the pit graves either!

This soldier, like many in that era, was not born in the U.S. but emigrated as a young adult, arriving in Texas in 1855. He found work as a laborer with the U.S. Army, in west Texas and the desert southwest, before the War. When succession came he joined the Confederate cause. By the summer of 1862 he was in northern Mississippi and became part of the 43rd Mississippi Infantry. He served at Iuka, and Corinth, and of course the Vicksburg Campaign. During this bloody campaign, the 43rd had one of the highest casualty rates of any of the Confederate regiments at Vicksburg, and this soldier was one of those casualties. He was felled by a Union sharpshooter, not a particularly unusual way to die at that moment in time!

The reason this lady could not find his marker was that the 43rd has its own little plot about 100 yards south of the rest of the Confederate markers. In this little plot there is indeed a marker for this soldier, but his body does not rest anywhere within this cemetery. For you see with the rest of the 43rd nearing starvation, this good soldier made the ultimate sacrifice--his body was cooked and eaten by his famished regiment! ----------- Oh, but wait! I need to tell you one or two more important facts about this good soldier before we end his tale! First his name “Old Douglas” and that … Old Douglas was a Camel--part of a failed experiment to use camels as pack animals in the desert southwest before the war. For the 43rd Mississippi called themselves the Camel Regiment and Old Douglas was their mascot and he was indeed a very good, maybe even delicious, soldier!

The Reverend Doctor William Wilberforce Lord was a man with a close walk with God. As the shells rained down on Vicksburg from the Union mortar boats on the Mississippi, he kept the doors to Christ Episcopal Church open daily to the beleaguered citizens of Vicksburg. Just days before his home, next door to the church, had been destroyed, when a heavy exploding shell had dropped through his roof, through the second floor, and landed on his dining room table, which had just been set with his family’s supper by his cook. It was only by God’s grace that he, his wife, and children had not been sitting at that very table when the shell detonated.

Reverend Lord was a man who had a strong faith. He moved his family into the basement of the church until he could have a proper “cave” constructed. Once his family was snugly ensconced in their subterranean shelter, no man would have blamed him for closing the church doors and joining them there. W.W. Lord, however, did not answer to any man, he answered to God, and if God stands with you, who can stand against you? So, while most of Vicksburg’s Churches remained shuttered during this deadly siege, Christ Episcopal was open! All but one of its beautiful stain glass windows had been shattered and pieces of glass and brick littered the sanctuary, yet the doors were open and Reverend Lord was present each day to minister to those who wished to come and pray.

On July 4th, the guns fell silent, and the Union Army marched down Jackson Street, within sight of the church-- the siege was over! Reverend Lord met with General Grant sometime later and Grant offered him safe passage through the Union lines to Mobile, but Lord refused, opting to leave the city with the paroled Confederates. He later served as a Confederate chaplain for the duration of the conflict.

After the War was over, Vicksburg quickly returned to prosperity, as the river reopened and the cotton trade resumed. A group of former Christ Episcopal congregants decided that post war Vicksburg was now big enough for a second Episcopalian Church, and in 1870 construction began on the “The Church of the Holy Trinity”, about seven blocks to the south, and Reverend Lord was called to serve as its first Rector.

This beautiful Romanesque Church was to feature a steeple that towered nearly two hundred feet above the streets of Vicksburg, and be topped with a cross nearly as big as a full grown man. When time came to set the steeple in place the question was asked, “Who was to do it?” Of course, none other than Reverend W.W. Lord stepped forward. Lord had worked on high masted sailing ships as a young man, so he knew a thing or two about maneuvering at lofty altitudes, but he was now a man of fifty-five years, a time when most of us prefer to keep our feet firmly on the ground. Perhaps Reverend Lord simply considered this task as putting him a little bit closer to heaven, for he shimmed up the towering edifice and successfully anchored this symbol of his saviors’ love to the highest point in the city.

That very cross cast it’s shadow across this city for many years thereafter, through wind, hail, lighting, and tornados. Finally, after nearly a century, it was decided this “old rugged cross” was due for retirement. A modern high crane was brought in which, quickly and efficiently, and with almost no risk, plucked Reverend Lord’s cross from the summit and replaced it with a replica. The replacement lasted just a little over a decade, before it was stuck by lighting and had to be replaced again. I guess the crane operator didn’t have the same connections upstairs. ​That original cross today sits at the head of an enclosed prayer garden on the church grounds as a reminder of the love of our Lord Jesus, but also of unquestioning uncompromising faith of a latter day disciple of his, the Reverend Doctor William Wilberforce Lord!

Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg DiscoversIt Really is a Small World After All!​ by Meshea Crysup​As you all know, it is Fall Pilgrimage time in Vicksburg, MS, again, and here, we go a little “above and beyond” most pilgrimage tours. We do not just sell you tickets to see homes on a self-guided tour. We actually have Morgan Gates, of Historic Vicksburg Tours and Haunted Vicksburg Tours, transport you in his van. As you drive to each location, Morgan also throws in his Vicksburg City Tour! It just so happened that Hubby was working this Sunday and Pilgrimage was covering three places I had not yet been to. You guessed it—I tagged along!​Our very first stop was The Martha Vick House, at 1300 Grove Street. It is an Antebellum, Greek Revival home, circa 1830. Built by Martha Vick, a daughter of Vicksburg’s founder, Newt Vick, it is the last original Vick House. I had stopped to look at it and had taken pictures from the outside many times, but I had not yet been inside. I was certainly looking forward to doing so! (There is a gallery of pictures at the end of this blog. Be sure not to miss them!)

Our tour guide was owner Bill Longfellow. What a charming, quintessential Southern Gentleman! Even more than that, however, it is obvious how passionate he is about the home he has devoted so much of his time and energy into. He was telling us about the home and a gentleman that had come to see it many years ago who then built a home essentially just like it. As smooth-as-silk, Mr. Longfellow added, “And his wife and daughter are here with us today!” At first, I thought I had misheard him, but no, I had not!

Of course, being a blogger, I had to ask if I could take a of Mr. Longfellow, Mrs. Dorothy Bell, and her daughter, Cathy Bell. They graciously allowed me to do so and to include it in today’s blog.​Seeing The Martha Vick House—its authentic restoration, antique furnishings, and vast art collection—was indeed a treat, but sharing Mr. Longfellow’s guided tour with these two ladies was certainly an added bonus I had not seen coming! Even when rediscovering Historic Vicksburg, it really is a small world after all!The Martha Vick House is available for private parties, receptions, and tours by appointment. 601-638-7036

The City Too Beautiful to Burnby Morgan GatesI was approached by a publishing company not long back about the possibility of writing a book. The working title would have been “The Hidden History of_____” and there we hit our impasse. I tried to convince them of the rich history of West Central Mississippi, but in the end, they really wanted a History of the Mississippi Delta, and as we know: “The Mississippi Delta begins in the lobby of the Peabody Hotel in Memphis and ends at Catfish Row in Vicksburg” –David Cohen, Author That small quote says a lot and puts it largely out of my area of expertise. So, anybody out there who know a good bit about “The Po Monkey Lounge, B.B. King, hot tamales, and Kool Aide Pickles, contact Arcadia Publishing. My point is that this area- the area along the Mississippi River, roughly between Vicksburg, on the north, and Natchez, on the south, and extending east about 30-40 miles, are some of the most historic lands in American history, but we don’t have a catchy name for the region. I like “The Lands Along the River”! What do you think? --So, for today’s installment of Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg, I thought we might drift a little south and visit another historic town of “The Lands Along the River”: Port Gibson, Mississippi.

The little town of Port Gibson lies 30 miles south of Vicksburg, on Highway 61. Last week My “partner in time”, Meshea, and I loaded up, along with my better half and a couple of friends, and went to visit my friend Joshua McCrane, and take his “Port Gibson Historical Ghost Tour”. It was a lot of fun! (Call the P.G. Chamber of Commerce at 601-437-4351 if you want to go.)

Port Gibson is a beautiful little historic town and one of the oldest in Mississippi. It was founded in 1803, by Samuel Gibson, at a landing on Bayou Pierre, a tributary of the Mississippi. Thus, it was Gibson’s river port or Port Gibson. The town is named for Gibson but there were French settlers there as early as 1729, making it one of the oldest settlements in Mississippi. It was home to Mississippi’s first library and second newspaper. The town was important enough in the antebellum period that it was visited by Henry Clay, one of the most important politicians of the period, who made two campaign speeches there during one his unsuccessful bids for the presidency. Considered one of the most beautiful towns of the old south, U.S. Grant fought and won the Battle of Port Gibson about two miles west of the city in 1863, and allegedly remarked, as he passed through on his way to Vicksburg, that the city was too beautiful to burn.

The town has many beautiful homes and public buildings, including A Presbyterian Church, which features a gold-plated hand, pointing toward heaven, in place of a cross, and a former synagogue that is the only example of Moorish Revival Architecture in the state.

Its Greenlawn Cemetery is one of the best maintained historic cemeteries in the region, with markers going all the way back to Samuel Gibson himself. Very nearby are the Natchez Trace Parkway (the original road actually came through the town) and Grand Gulf State Park, which commemorates the Civil War Battle of Grand Gulf. It has a museum and a number of reconstructed historic buildings, and it is one of the few places you can get up close and personal with the Mighty Mississippi without a boat. (I strongly advise against swimming in it though)! The beautiful Ruins of Windsor are just a few miles west and the Ghost town of Rodney is not far southwest. The town and its surroundings are well worth a visit.

Ok, so now the bad news. Don’t come expecting a thriving tourist Mecca. Long gone are the prosperous days of old. The town has fallen on hard times. There are no “quality” restaurants in town. There is, however, a McDonalds and a couple of other fast food establishments. I can highly recommend the “Old Country Store” (a restaurant) in Lorman, 10 miles south of Port Gibson, on highway 61. As for lodging, one of the bed and breakfasts such as Isabella or Oak Square are your best choices. Port Gibson is also an easy day trip from Vicksburg or Natchez. So, the next time you are in a mood for some “off the beaten track exploring” go check them out.

And they all lived happily ever after… THE END! Every fairy tale ended that way remember? Or perhaps you don’t, it seems fairy tales are becoming things of the past as well. Oh well that’s a different story. But you get the picture, all stories, be they fairy tales, books, or movies necessarily come to an end. Some end well others not so well, but inevitably the story ends. But real life … not so much! Life goes on, changed perhaps, seen through the eyes of others perhaps, but still it goes on. When I am giving a tour of the Vicksburg National Military Park I pretty much wrap it up with the surrender on July 4th 1863, but of course Vicksburg’s story goes on as well. The war was not over, there were not quite two more years of conflict left before Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Court House and of course there would be men under arms in the South for months thereafter. So, I thought I would just briefly discuss a few things that happened in and around Vicksburg after the Siege ended but while the War was still going on. Some of these I may expand upon in later Blog articles:No Show Joe: We know of course that Joseph E. Johnson had been ordered to Jackson in mid-May to command the “Army of the Relief” and raise the siege of Vicksburg and yet he found reason after reason to delay his march until it was too late. When he finally reached to the line of the Big Black River (15 miles east of Vicksburg) he discovered that Grant was ready for him (big surprise) and had heavily fortified his rear. He probed this formidable “Exterior Line” in vain as Pemberton surrendered his beleaguered army and the city. Then Grant turned to his “Pit Bull” William T. Sherman and said “sic ‘em” and he crossed the Big Black with his own army of maneuver in hot pursuit. Johnson raced back to Jackson he delayed Sherman by poisoning the water sources with animal carcasses, just as the Union had done to Vicksburg’s defenders. Johnston made it to Jackson and slammed the door shut, and that city was briefly besieged, but Johnson was not a man who would hold his ground at all costs. He and his army sliped across the Pearl River in the middle of the night and left Mississippi and Jackson burned for a second time. For more on this little known event, read Jim Woodrick’s The Civil War Siege of Jacksonhttps://www.arcadiapublishing.com/Products/9781626197299 .

Grant on Ice: The surrender of Vicksburg was of course a long sought goal of the Union and on the surface Grant was the man of the hour. But for the next four months he would not be fighting but doing garrison duty in the captured city. He would watch as much of his valiant army was siphoned off to other parts of the war. Here we must remember that while we know Grant as a great hero today, at the time he was not well liked by many of his peers, many of whom considered him a “stumbling little drunk”! Grant also had political enemies, especially John McClernand whom he had relieved of command during the siege.Grant had been relieved of his command by his superior General Henry Halleck after the Battle of Shiloh (only fifteen months in the past) and he had disobeyed Halleck’s orders when he pushed inland from Grand Gulf on his way to Vicksburg. There must have been more than a little doubt about his future in his mind when he lay down at night during this time. Did he turn once more to his alleged and much debated drinking? We know that on a visit to New Orleans during this period Grant had another incident with a falling horse, that would leave him badly bruised and in great pain for a period of time. Then he received the message from the War Department, to report to Cairo Illinois to meet with a representative of the department. We know today that this will be good news, but what did Grant think? Oh shit! Or about time!

That looks like about enough for one entry, so we will continue this line of thought in our next installment………

Meshea writing about Vicksburg’s history rather than ways of rediscovering it—what’s up with that? Well, Morgan is a very busy man of late and I know our history-diehards like this sort of thing better than “tourist advice”. Plus, I am still discussing yet another way to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg. There is something here for history lovers and history rediscovers alike, making this piece a win-win! Speaking of winning in two different ways…

While I have been an avid history lover my whole life, I am not good with remembering the names of all the generals, battles, etc. Like everyone, I know who Grant and Lee were, about the battles of Gettysburg and Vicksburg, and of course I can remember Lincoln and Davis by name. Van Dorn however, not so much.

Who is Van Dorn and How Did I Stumble upon Him?

First, the “how”.My husband’s ancestor fought in the Civil War, right here in Vicksburg, and, if family tales are to be believed, he “walked all the way back to Texas” afterward. Hubby also just happens to work with a very active member of our local Sons of the Confederacy group, so while it took a while to get him there—Thank you Bryan Skipworth—Hubby is now a member. Like Vicksburg Civil War Roundtable, the Sons of the Confederacy have a speaker each month. This month, it was none other than author Brandon H. Beck! (Did you catch that? I just threw in yet another way to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg! Two actually! The Sons of Confederacy and a very knowledgeable author and passionate, enthralling speaker, Brandan H. Beck! Yes, the links can be found at the end of the article!)

Now, for the “who”.Major General Earl Van Dorn was “colorful and controversial” according to Dr. Brandon H. Beck. In fact, the cover of Beck’s book, HOLLY SPRINGS: Van Dorn, The CSS Arkansas, and the Raid that Saved Vicksburg, features the pictures of the two men Van Dorn fought most: U.S. Grant and Earl Van Dorn. This is exactly how Dr. Beck began his presentation and I was hooked!

Van Dorn did indeed save Vicksburg twice. Once by preventing the U.S. Navy from taking it and once by causing U.S. Grant to abandon an attempt to take it. There is no doubt, each of these was a major accomplishment, and having done both of them, one would think that secured his legacy and assured Major General Van Dorn a place in history. It might had, if only Grant has been his only enemy—alas, he was not.

He survived the horrors of war only to have his drinking and fondness of the ladies to be his undoing. His was not the brave and glorious death of a general in battle, nor was it the quiet passing of an aged, respected war hero. Instead, he was shot by a jealous husband and angry father. His less-than-inspiring death was then overshadowed by the incredibly misfortunate, friendly-fire shooting of General Stonewall Jackson, which eventually lead to his death just three days after Van Dorn’s. Thus, the highly respected Stonewall Jackson has become legendary—I easily remember his name too—but Van Dorn, again, not so much.

Like many great men in history—Caesar, King David, and Henry the Eighth—Van Dorn had his weaknesses and personal demons. Unfortunately for him, the Victorian sensibilities of that era were not as forgiving of such things as we are today. To his contemporaries and peers, Van Dorn was a lesser man, in spite of his accomplishments. With the gift of hindsight however, I see him as more than a man who lost the exact same internal battle we all have of Sinner-Saint. General Earl Van Dorn, the military man, certainly should be remembered for saving Vicksburg, not once, but twice.

For the complete story, I highly recommend Dr. Brandon’s book, HOLLY SPRINGS: Van Dorn, The CSS Arkansas, and the Raid that Saved Vicksburg. I also thoroughly enjoyed his speaking style and recommend him for any group wanting to learn more about Civil War history. For more information about our local Sons of the Confederacy, contact Bryan Skipworth.

Rediscover Historic Vicksburg Via “Haunted Venues”In the interest of full disclosure, yes, Morgan Gates, my “partner in time” at RHV founded, owns, and operates Haunted Vicksburg Tours and Historic Vicksburg Tours. I am not shamelessly plugging his business, however. His tours really are awesome—would I have him as my blog partner if they were not? Also, his is the only tour business available in Vicksburg, outside of the military park. If others were available, I would write about them as well! That said, let me tell you about my experience on the Haunted Venues Tour I took last week and why I really believe this is another great way to Rediscover Historic Vicksburg!Meshea Crysup, Founder Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg Founder Civil War Bloggers, Authors…& More Network Founder Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg Books Vicksburg Civil War Roundtable VP

“Haunted Venues”Like all of Morgan’s tours, we started out in the parking lot of the Vicksburg Outlet Mall. It is very easy to find—just head for Cracker Barrel and instead of turning into their parking lot, look to your left and you will see the Historic Vicksburg and Haunted Vicksburg Tours van, and, most likely, Morgan will be standing beside it watching for you! The tour starts at 8 PM, so as instructed, we—I enlisted my friend Kim Steen, Vicksburg Realtor Extraordinaire, to come along—arrived by 7:45. We were joined by a vacationing couple. Rain was moving in, but had not started yet. No matter—while the tour does involve getting out of the van several times, it is a driving tour and does not have to be canceled due to a little rain!

I expected to enjoy the tour, certainly, but I am around Morgan a lot! We are constantly talking about RHV, his business, the books, and other projects we have going, etc. I really did not expect to hear anything that had not already come up in conversation one time or another over the past year of Coffee Klatches and collaboration. Boy was I wrong!

The tour covers four neighborhoods, with a stop in each, plus a drive along the riverfront. While driving to our first area/stop, Morgan discussed a bit of Vicksburg history while also setting the tone for the topic of the evening: Haunted Venues!

Baer House InnKim and I are at Baer House Inn frequently—attending Vicksburg Civil War Roundtable as well as other meetings there and other events, such as the Detective Comedy Dinner Theatre productions. To be honest, neither of us expected anything unusual so we both opted to leave our phones locked in the van. This was a mistake because, like the rest of the world, our smartphones are also or cameras and there is a “photo op” at Baer House that is very cool, and on this particular night, was also “eventful”. As per usual, I am not going to give away the details—I do not want to spoil the tour for you—but it involves a photograph in the house! The inn had a couple of guests that decided to join us for Morgan’s stories. After the very—hmm, I will just say “out of the ordinary photographic experience”, Morgan ended that part of our tour by telling the inn patron who were staying behind to “sleep tight!” RIGHT!!!

Washington StreetOur next stop was on the street with most of the businesses and restaurants in the historic part of Vicksburg—Washington Street. Kim and I are certainly on this street often, however we did NOT leave our cameras behind this time! There is another interesting photo op—outside of the doll museum. Yes, I said DOLL MUSEUM—creepy already, I know! We were all armed with our trusty smartphone cameras this time. Unfortunately, you know how it goes when you are prepared for something—nothing happened, this time, at least not with the photo. What did happen? A local business owner was just stepping onto the sidewalk as we went by. Of course, Morgan knows everyone, so the gentleman stopped to say hello. Since he was there and we were taking a haunted tour, he shared two of his own, most recent, Haunted Vicksburg experiences with us! Freaky!!!

Tourist Alert! I live here, so I should have known better, but I did not prepare for the Mississippi mosquitos! Riverfront, muggy, summer night in Mississippi—you get the picture! Think “Backwoods Off”!

Riverfront DriveI go to the Riverfront frequently to take pictures, but never at night. Not only is it a different visual experience, but Morgan has a whole other set of stories and facts to share. I informed the group and Morgan that obviously he had been holding out on me. In truth, however, he just knows so much about the area and its history that, as with all of his tours, he switches up what he tells. They are all great stories and you never get exactly the same tour twice!

Garden DistrictThis part of the tour takes you to an entirely different part of town and much further than one could go on a walking tour. We actually stopped at Cedar Grove, which is one of my favorite B&B’s to eat at. At night, it was beautiful! While we were there, a young man that had been on the tour a few days before showed up. He had a friend with him and he was basically recounting his tour experience with her. He actually came up and showed us all a picture he had taken on yet another night that he had returned to the tour site! Obviously, he was enthralled by what Morgan had shared during the tour! As for the picture he shared—wow! And, as if on cue, a hoot owl joined us, adding to the haunted ambience!

Southern Cultural Heritage Center Our last stop was also too far from the downtown area to have been reached by a basic walking tour. I have been to this area with Morgan on other tours, but again, he shared stories I had not yet heard! The ambience at night here too is very different than during the day. It is certainly a great area for discussing haunted history!

Just as we were finishing up the tour, the rain moved in—Perfect timing! As for my over-all impression of the tour, it is truly a great way to Rediscover Historic—and Haunted—Vicksburg. I actually enjoyed it even more than the Haunted History Ghost Walk tour. Alternating between walking a bit and driving allows you to cover more of Vicksburg—more Haunted Venues! Like the very popular—and rightly so—walking tour, whether you believe in hauntings or just like history with some unexplained and unusual twists, you will certainly come away agreeing with Morgan’s tour catch phrase, “You never know what is going to happen in Haunted Vicksburg!”​

Rediscover Historic Vicksburg with a Night at the Museum September is upon us and one of the things that means is “Night at the Museum” is near! In fact, Night at the Museum III will be Saturday evening, Sept. 23rd from 6-8 PM, at Vicksburg’s Old Courthouse Museum. ( https://oldcourthouse.org/ ) The first year’s theme was basically a walk through the history represented at the Old Courthouse Museum. The second year’s theme was the Civil War. This year, in honor of the 200th anniversary of Mississippi’s statehood, the theme is “Mississippi Before Statehood”.Great theme, but what exactly is “Night at the Museum”?Night at the Museum is a fundraiser for Vicksburg’s Old Courthouse Museum, which is privately funded. Remarkably, it is also open frequently and very reasonably priced! For more information, go to https://oldcourthouse.org/This year, the event will be held inside to avoid issues with Vicksburg’s unpredictable weather. Priced at only $10 a person, over a period of about forty-five minutes, participants will take a walk through the history of pre-statehood Mississippi via the stories of five historic figures and facts about their particular contributions, location, etc. In character, event presenters will represent: -Davion a Jesuit priest – St Pierre Mission 1698 -Monsieur de la Tour – overseer of French plantation at Fort St. Pierre 1721 -William Selkrig – small farmer at 3 islands 1778 -Don Manuel Gayoso de Lemos – military governor of West Florida (fort Nogales) 1790’s -Tobias Gibson – founder of modern Methodism in this​ area 1799-1804Night at the Museum is a great event for everyone! Whether you are young or old, by yourself, in a group, on a date, or a night out as a family. Whether you are mildly interested in history or a serious history buff, a tourist visiting the area or were born-and-raised right here in Vicksburg, this is a great way to spend a Saturday evening Rediscovering Historic Vicksburg and you can feel even better about it knowing you are helping to support the privately funded Vicksburg Old Courthouse Museum!